They do not call it sweet home Alabama for nothing! We headed back to Alabama for some much needed family fun! My family and I embarked on a fun-filled trip to East Alabama, a hidden gem packed with natural beauty, charming small towns, and family-friendly activities. From hiking in state parks to indulging in delicious local eats, here’s a recap of our adventure-packed weekend.
Day 1:
When we arrived, we decided to treated the kids (and ourselves) to a few hours of fun at Big Time Entertainment! This family entertainment center has it all—bowling, arcade games, go karts, virtual reality and laser tag. It was the perfect way to start our trip! We grabbed take out and called it a night.
Day 2:
Little River Canyon & DeSoto Falls
We kicked off the day at Little River Canyon National Preserve, a true natural wonder. The deep canyon, lush greenery, and scenic overlooks made for an unforgettable experience. We spent the morning hiking and exploring the canyon rim, which offered picture-perfect views at every turn.
After a few hours of hiking and exploring Little River Canyon and Falls we stopped for a cold treat at the Rim of the Canyon Cafe & Grocery. Nestled near Little River Canyon, this charming cafe serves up delicious ice cream, and it was the perfect treat to cool down after a day of exploring. The kids loved their scoops, and the laid-back atmosphere made it a memorable stop.
From there, we made our way to DeSoto Falls, one of Alabama’s most impressive waterfalls. Standing at 104 feet tall, the sight of the cascading water left us all in awe. The short, easy walk to the falls was perfect for our family, and we spent some time relaxing by the water’s edge and of course getting some great captures!
Day 3:
Cheaha State Park & Choccolocco Park
The next morning, we set out for a visit to Cheaha State Park, home to Alabama’s highest point. The park is a nature lover’s paradise with breathtaking views, scenic hiking trails, and Cheaha Falls—a serene waterfall that instantly transported us to a world of peace. The kids loved exploring the trails, while Greg and I enjoyed the stunning views from the mountaintop. Nox and Nori really enjoyed leading the way down the trail. So it was perfect for even the littlest ones in our crew!
Later in the day, we visited Choccolocco Park in Oxford. It’s a great spot for families, with sprawling green fields, playgrounds, and walking trails. The kids had a blast running around and playing while we enjoyed the peaceful lake and surrounding nature. They also had a workout warrior station that the older kids thoroughly enjoy. We were able to catch the sunset which was also a great treat.
Day 3:
Anniston Museum and Gardens
For a change of pace, we spent our third day exploring some of the cultural and indoor attractions in the area. Anniston Museum of Natural History was a hit with the whole family. From fascinating exhibits on wildlife and ancient civilizations to beautiful gardens, there was something for everyone to enjoy.
Afterwards we took a Coffee Break & explored downtown Oxford. Because you know a family trip is complete without a coffee stop! While exploring downtown Oxford, we stumbled upon Southern Girl Coffee Company, a cozy coffee shop where we recharged with delicious coffee and snacks. The warm and welcoming atmosphere made it a perfect pit stop as we wandered through the charming streets of Oxford.
Where We Stayed: A Cozy Airbnb in Anniston
Our home base for the trip was a quaint Airbnb in Anniston. Nestled in a quiet neighborhood, it was the ideal spot for us to relax after our long days of adventure. The house had all the comforts of home, with cozy beds and a charming front porch where we could enjoy our morning coffee before heading out for the day.
Where We Ate: Local Flavors in Anniston & Oxford
On our first morning, we treated ourselves to breakfast at Music City Bagels, where we devoured fresh, homemade NYC-style bagels. The bagels were perfectly chewy and delicious, with a variety of toppings to choose from. It was the perfect way to fuel up for a day of exploration.
For dinner, we enjoyed the lively atmosphere at Coldwater Mountain Brewery, where we indulged in local brews and hearty pub food. Another evening, we dined at the famous Top O’ the River, known for its fried catfish and Southern comfort food. Both meals were highlights of the trip, offering a taste of the local flavor that we won’t soon forget.
Final Thoughts
East Alabama offers so much for families looking to connect with nature, enjoy local culture, and make lasting memories. From the breathtaking waterfalls and canyons to the cozy coffee shops and unique local dining, our trip was filled with adventure and joy. If you’re looking for a family-friendly destination with a little bit of everything, East Alabama should be at the top of your list!
Have you visited this area before? I’d love to hear your favorite spots or any recommendations for our next visit!
Adding this to my list of spots to visit with the fam! The views are beautiful, the food looks good and the airbnb was so cute! Looks like you guys had a great trip.
The nature and sweet treats look so nice!
Your family is beautiful! 🙂